Why I looked downwards in World Cup photo – Uruguay coach Bielsa

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By Enitan Abdultawab

Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa has explained why he posed with his head downwards in Uruguay’s 2026 World Cup photos.

Bielsa brushed aside speculation surrounding his viral FIFA World Cup portrait, insisting there was no hidden message behind the unconventional photograph.

The veteran Argentine tactician attracted attention after FIFA released official portraits of players and coaching staff ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

While most participants looked directly at the camera, Bielsa was photographed looking downward, prompting widespread debate on social media and suggestions that the image was a form of protest.

However, speaking after Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in their opening Group H match, Bielsa dismissed the claims and questioned why the photograph had generated so much discussion.

“I don’t have to give any explanation, the picture was taken the way it was taken,” Bielsa told reporters.

“I’m not a model.”

The 70-year-old coach, renowned for his unconventional personality and meticulous approach to football, said there was nothing unusual about the image despite the reactions it sparked online.

When asked again about the portrait during his post-match press conference, Bielsa suggested that people were reading too much into a routine moment.

“There is a limit in terms of what we need to explain,” he said.

“If I’m wearing glasses, why am I wearing glasses? You look somebody in the eye, why do you do that?

“There is nothing wrong about wearing glasses or looking into somebody’s eyes or looking down.”

Bielsa, who is appearing at his third FIFA World Cup after previous tournaments with Argentina and Chile, has built a reputation throughout his career for doing things differently.

Nicknamed “El Loco” (“The Crazy One”), he has managed some of football’s biggest clubs and national teams, including Athletic Bilbao, Marseille, Lille and Leeds United.

Despite the attention surrounding his portrait, Bielsa’s focus remains firmly on Uruguay’s World Cup campaign.

The South American side opened their tournament with a draw against Saudi Arabia and will now turn their attention to their next Group H fixture against Cape Verde as they seek their first victory of the competition.

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